Dimensions

• Weight: 225 – 235lbs (102.1 – 106.6kg)

• Arms: 22″
• Chest: 57″
• Waist: 34″
• Thighs: 28.5″
• Calves: 20″

Notable Lifts 

• Clean and press – 264 lb (120 kg)
• Snatch – 243 lb (110 kg)
• Clean and jerk – 298 lb (135 kg)
• Squat – 545 lb (247 kg)
• Bench press – 520 lb (240 kg)
• Deadlift – 710 lb (320 kg)

(Arnold posing in the warmup room at the 1974 Mr. Olympia competition)

Biography

While Arnold may not be known as a strength athlete, he is still seen as the spark that ignited the flame of gym culture around the world. Many strength athletes will say that Arnold has been their inspiration, whether it was his godlike physique, his charisma, or simply his success in the sport of body building, Arnold Schwarzenegger had inspired millions around the world to hit the gym in the pursuit for bodily perfection.

(A 19 year old Arnold Deadlifting 616 pounds at the German powerlifting championships, 1966)

Arnold had started his career off as a powerlifter, placing second in his first national competition. It was clear from a young age that Arnold was destined to do great things, however he was more interested in pursuing bodily perfection than he was at being powerlifter. As a result, Arnold began his career as a bodybuilder. Soon after his powerlifting debut, Arnold went on to win Mr. Europe in 1966.

(Arnold posing at the 1975 Mr. Olympia contest)

Arnold had one goal in mind, to be the best bodybuilder to have ever lived. During the peak of his carreer, Arnold was unstoppable. His prime came in the years 1970 – 1975, Where Arnold had won six consecutive Mr. Olympia Titles, the highest title a bodybuilder can earn. Arnold then retired from the sport, but came back in 1980, where he won his seventh Mr. Universe title. After his amazing comeback, Arnold then solidified himself as the best bodybuilder of the time.

(Arnold being sworn into Governor of California, 2003)

Besides his impressive bodybuilding carrer, Arnold has accomplished so much with his life. Not only did he star in some of Americas biggest blockbuster movies including Terminator and Predator, but he also become Governor of California in 2003 until 2011. But before Arnold could do any of this, he had to first move to America and learn English. When Arnold had first moved to America, he was living in an attic space above a gym, where after training for the day, he would spend his evenings studying English. Arnold had come to America with nothing, yet he never gave up on his dream of becoming a star in America.

(Statue of Arnold outside of the Greater Columbus Convention Center)

What I think makes Arnold Such a inspiration to many across the world is the fact that has accomplished so much in his life in many different fields. It really makes one think: “How many lifetimes do I have to live just to accomplish one of these feats.”. Arnold is the perfect example of how handwork and determination are key to ones successes, that no matter how difficult something may seem, you must always keep working toward your dream. Possessing a mindset and drive like Arnolds can lead a person to have a legendary life, that will inspire others and be remembered throughout time.

Sources

“Arnold Schwarzenegger – The Greatest Bodybuilder EverLeave a Reply.” Arnold Schwarzenegger – The Greatest Bodybuilder Ever – IllPumpYouUp.com, 15 Oct. 2004, www.illpumpyouup.com/articles/arnold-schwarzenegger-the-greatest-bodybuilder-ever.htm.